Lousley Hill Trail is a nice, easy stroll in the McDowell Mountain Regional Park. This short loop trail offers views of the McDowell Mountains to the west and Rio Verde and the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation to the east. Four Peaks looms in the distance to the east and at a couple of locations along the trail Weaver's Needle is visible to the south.

The trail begins at a paved parking area and leads the hiker south into wash. The trail through the wash is lined with rocks to keep you on course. Shortly after entering the wash you will come to a marked fork in the trail. This is where the loop portion of the hike begins. This description will follow the trail counter-clockwise, or up the right fork. The ascent up Lousley Hill is steady and gradual with a few moderately steep sections. A various points along the trail, there are benches for a brief respite to enjoy the views. Close to the summit, the trail skirts just below the top of the ridge. You'll know you've reached the top of Lousley Hill when you spot a small summit cairn. Continuing on from the summit, the trail follows a ridge to the east, gently descending. At one point you will come to a railing to keep you from walking off the edge of a rather long drop. Admire the view and continue on.

The trail snakes down the side of the hill and at one point you will have a view of the drop off you described above. Eventually, the trail re-enters the wash and meets up with itself, completing the loop.

WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.

To hikeFrom Phoenix, take the 202 Red Mountain Freeway east to Arizona 87 (Country Club Rd). Proceed north on 87 to the junction with Shea Blvd in Fountain Hills. Turn left on Shea Blvd and continue for 2.3 miles to Fountain Hills Blvd. Turn right on Fountain Hills Blvd; this will eventually turn into McDowell Mountain Road. Turn left into McDowell Mountain Park after 7.4 miles. The Lousley Hill trail head is approximately 5 miles from the park entrance.